My Top 10 Reasons Why You Should or Shouldn't Leave facebook (Part 1)

This list is in no particular order and was NOT stolen from another individual. Copyright Infringement will not be tolerated and all property goes to Steven Chung....AH SCREW IT! I don't care...do what you want. :) 

- Blog #17: IT'S TIME FOR ANOTHER "Opposites Attract" TOP 10 LIST! What a list it is! It's been a question on my mind as to whether or not I should delete my facebook account. There are quite a few reasons as to why I would want to be rid of this social monstrosity, but there are major delaying factors that come into play. Just a quick re-cap on how my "Opposites Attract" lists work: Instead of my usual compilation of 10 picks-per-topic, I'll be composing a pair of blogs where each part will consist of one different side of the story to another. Basically, one part of the blog will have one side of five entries and the other blog will have the "Opposite." Get it? Got it? Splendid. Let's start off with the pieces of reflection that show off good-looking reasons to keep facebook.

Keep facebook!


1. You Can Stay in Touch - Chances are likely that this is the main reason why no one wants to leave facebook permanently. What other reason could top this? Well...not that many. Social-networking has been taking over the communication product line and has attracted those who are young and those who are old. Soon, telephones and letters won't exist anymore because email and instant-messaging will be there to take its rightful place. So, go with the flow. It's been argued that facebook is "destroying" our lives, but is it really? I'm on facebook a lot, but I don't see anything different with how I act outside of the computer screen. This website is called a "social network" for a reason. Be social. Talk with people. Keep up with friends and family because this site can't make things any easier for you. That is, when you get right down to it. If you're friends with somebody, you can contact them anytime (unless one of you have strict privacy settings...I'll get to that a bit later). However, it's best that this little convenience is not abused to a point where you're over-controlling.


2. "Where else will you go?" - (Another "I don't care what anyone else says" moment coming up!) I've visited some other social networking sites, just for kicks. There are two other sites that try to rival that of the leading facebook franchise. "twitter" and "tumblr", which both sound like the "Jack and Jill" of internet extravaganzas (which could possibly symbolize facebook as the giant "hill" of the company competition). I just want to point out that Myspace just doesn't have anything to compete with. So, that site is out the window. Both of these places have their own unique quality that attracts the users. It's too bad that facebook came up with these ideas first. "twitter" is a basically a place where people post their everyday lives with a status update, like facebook (except facebook had that concept before them...FACT!). "tumblr" is really just a "blog" site that works similar to facebook, but lacks a lot of the real enjoyable uniqueness that facebook has. In fact, the only reason I've heard as to why people leave facebook to go to these sites is because they all want to leave behind the "dumb-ass" people. News-Flash! Not everyone on facebook is a nitwit! If I was in your shoes, I'd do one of the following: Delete that person (though I'd find that immature), suck it up and cope, block that person, or leave facebook and never join another social-networking site again. Are you so ignorant, selfish, and just plain stubborn enough to be disloyal? Whenever someone is being dumb, I just cope. It's not that hard. Once we accept each other for who we really are, we can be much happier. So, why on Earth would you want to delete everything you've done on facebook just to get away from others, whom you so-call "ruin" your life? Which leads me to............


3. You'll Lose Everything That's Been Downloaded (Memories) - Everything. Pictures, videos, posts, notes, and even friends (internet-wise). EVERYTHING! A LOT OF THOSE THINGS MAY NOT EVEN BE YOURS! So, by deleting your facebook, does that mean you have to hunt down everyone who sent you stuff? Then, you have to ask them to send you pictures or anything else sent, separately? HELL NO! I'm not doing that! What if you're like me and you have a ton of pictures and videos that were sent by other people? Some of those people may not even own that property anymore. So, why take the chance? I'm sure there's a way to solve this issue, but it's sure not doable by the easy way. You can't send everything to yourself via email, because the quality comes out really bad. The pictures would not even be enjoyable to look at anymore. If I can figure a way out of this predicament, I may leave facebook in an instant. This is the worst reason as to why I CAN'T leave facebook. Once everything is gone, you'll have to start over if you ever want to come back to facebook. For someone who has a lot of stuff, that would be a nightmare. 


4. You May Lose Some Privileges - This one is really minor, but it's a reason. See...I have this attraction to another site called "picnik." Like most other social sites, you have to register to go onto this website. To combat this, facebook allows you access to this site. This is so long as you own an account and you have some pictures already set on your page. Now, you get rid of facebook and you lose that privilege. Again...it's a small loss, but it's a loss. You'll also lose the ability to promote your cause, which could be your band, your community activity, your novelty (blogs or other pieces of art), and/or many other events that you may have planned. This doesn't mean that you lose complete control over your promotion...just on facebook, which is an extremely large enough crowd as it is. By leaving facebook, you could be missing out on the chance to promote something worthwhile. The newspaper is being replaced by facebook. Everyone will read anything that has an essence of interest. So, if you want to attract a large audience, don't get rid of your facebook.


5. You Just....Can't (and shouldn't have to) - Addictions. Harmful, although you can't tell yourself that you notice such a behavioral side-effect. For some reason, having the ability to see everyone's junk and seeing everyone act as they are seems satisfactory to those who care about the people. You can't tell someone to stop doing what they enjoy to do. However, you can find ways to talk to or help another person with their life predicaments. We all want to know what everyone's doing. It's not really stalking, unless you abuse the system. It's everyone looking out for each other. It's what we chose to do with this information is what's important. To cause less drama, it's best not to over-react or over-exaggerate something that you've seen or read. Do you have the self-control needed? Of course, if that question could easily be answered with a "yes", then you wouldn't need a facebook now...would you? It's best to just use facebook for what it claims itself to be. Use it for communicating with friends, family, and newly acquainted acquaintances. Don't use it just to build on something that you can build upon yourself. Human qualities.

- So, you've read my reasons on why you should keep your facebook (and probably the reasons why I will continue to use facebook, myself), but what about the reasons that make you want to bounce away? Stay tuned for Part 2, when I talk about the reasons on why you should ditch your facebook account.


- Done (for now).

My Top 10 Funny Family Guy Moments

This list is in no particular order and was NOT stolen from another individual. Copyright Infringement will not be tolerated and all property goes to Steven Chung....AH SCREW IT! I don't care...do what you want. :) 

- Blog #16: Time to lighten things up! Family Guy is one of those shows where, at first you think it's stupid, but there's actually some real humor and truth behind all of it. I'm not going to make things theoretical and long (because who wants to read that). Since this is such a popular show, there's no way that this list is going to be anywhere near as close to anyone else. This is just a simple look-back on some of Family Guy's funny moments (Giggety!).


1. "Keith..." - Wow. Just wow.

2. Kermit...Racist? - A joke's only racist, if you claim it to be. Otherwise, it's funny.

3. Rainbow Wheel of Death - If you have a Mac computer, you'll get this.

4. "We now go to Ollie Williams..." - Oh Ollie....

5. Brian and Stewie at the Emmys - One of TV's greatest duos. I loved this.

6. "Cool Whip" - Why DOES he say it like that?

7. "Poked some holes in its back, so it can breathe." - Why would you do that...?

8. "YOU READY TO RACE!? HUH!?" - Ahhh...animal perspective.

9. Peter's "Daisy Dukes" Phase - Ha-haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa.

10. "Hey! I know what will cheer you up..." - I died, when I first saw this.

- Done. (Giggety-Giggety Goo!)

My Top 10 Songs That I Don't Want To Hear Anymore

This list is in no particular order and was NOT stolen from another individual. Copyright Infringement will not be tolerated and all property goes to Steven Chung....AH SCREW IT! I don't care...do what you want. :)  

- Blog #15: I'm a man who thoroughly enjoys music. There's really no tune that I wouldn't lend an ear to. If it catches even the slightest interest, then I'll listen to it. Lately, I've been listening to the radio and music being played all over the place. A thought came to me. Why are there so many songs that are being replayed over and over again!? How do people listen to this crap? Has anyone ever had that moment where you're listening to a song and you just say to yourself..."This song is f***ing old"? This list expresses that feeling of distaste and it shows off 10 songs that need to stop playing...now. Some of us are really tired of listening to the same old music. It's just painful.

1. I Gotta Feeling (Black Eyed Peas) - It's overused. I hear it EVERYWHERE! That's the problem with "good" music. People will want to use it over and over again, because they claim they love it and others will love it too. After hearing this song over 100 times, I don't have the feeling that I'm going to be listening to this song anymore. Plus, I read somewhere that 12 people wrote the lyrics to this song. Really? It took 12 people to write a song that had the phrases, "I gotta feeling......that tonight's gonna be a good night" and "Let's do it", used about 20 times? 12 people!? I know plenty of individuals who write music and write music well...on their own! A lot of them aren't even famous! I can list a bunch of good songwriters at my high school! I'll give it to BEP that they made a catchy beat for this, but that's just the attention grabber. This song is over.

2. California Girls (Katy Perry) - Here's another problem with songs of this generation. Song ideas are often stolen from other, older songs. In other words, many songs of this generation should really have a "Sue-Stamp" on their labels. This song must have had ideas stolen from the Beach Boy's version. In fact, the only difference that I see between the two songs is that one is authentic and the other one just added a catchy beat that wasn't necessary (the same "beat" problem as #1). These musicians are damn lucky that their songs make the big bucks. I mean, really damn lucky. I hate this song with a burning passion. Can there NOT be songs about girls who act like schmucks? It's getting old and giving out bad messages.

3. Don't Stop Believin' (Journey) - Go ahead and hate. I don't care. What is so special about this song? Why is it that this song is most often played at parties, karaoke shows, or other festivities? Why is it that this song is so popular and, yet, most people can only remember the first couple of lines? There are far better songs out there where people can actually remember the whole song. Truthfully, the only reason I don't want to hear this song anymore is because I don't want to listen to others try and sing along with it. This song isn't THAT good. I'm sorry.

4. Poker Face (Lady Gaga) - The only thing I found at all good with this song was the audio editing done on the words "Poker" and "Face." Other than that, this song is a joke. Do you know another thing I hate about this new generation of music? It's that moment where the singer feels the need to add a melodic "oooh", "ahhh" or in this case a "mum mum mum ma" phrase. If you're going to do it, do it right! Do it with actual feeling! Do it up with Earth, Wind, and Fire style! The way that singers do it now is just a sign to have the listeners pity them. It's despicable. Lady Gaga? Popular superstar contender to President Obama? I don't see it and I don't want to hear this song anymore.

5. Any Song With Rihanna - Ok singer, bad songs. I hate any song by Rihanna. She takes the melodic ecstasy idea from #4 and uses it at her will. Rihanna, your lyrics are depressing. You're depressing. I don't feel bad for you about the whole "Chris Brown" scenario. You should have known about what you were getting into. Chris Brown may have beaten you up, but it was your fault for not noticing what kind of behavior this kind of guy had. Go fall in a hole. All songs, with you in it, are just sour. Especially, this one...

6. Tik Tok (Ke$ha) - Another song with a reference to sex...great. For starters, the first few lines of this song make me sick. How the hell can you brush your teeth with a bottle of jack? Are your thoughts THAT messed up!? That's just immature and stupid. Don't try and convince me that this song has deeper meaning! It doesn't. I wouldn't want to dance to this song. Every time I hear, "Wake up in the morning feeling like P-Diddy", I either want to shoot myself or shoot Ke$ha (not that even have the heart to do so). She makes it sound so...icky. Radio just loves to pop in music that revolves around intercourse now, doesn't it? That's pleasant (<--- take the hint of sarcasm).

7. Party in the U.S.A (Miley Cyrus) - Miley is a much better song writer than most everyone on this list. It's just too bad that my feeling of hope for her becoming a good role model had been swiped away by fate. It's a shame that Miley has become a spoiled superstar who only wants to party and pretend to be her alter-ego "Hannah Montana!" On the side, the song itself is ok. This is just one of those songs that you get tired of hearing of, after a while. It's one of those songs where you're like: "Yeah, we heard you. They're playing your song. Shut up." This is a song where the joy that's supposed to be felt is replaced with something that feels forced. In the words of some, Miley..."you forced it."

8. Dynamite (Taio Cruz) - I don't know much about this guy, but I hear this song a lot. I dub this piece of work as another song with a catchy beat, but lousy context. I looked through the lyrics of this song and the only thing I'm getting out of it is that this song is about a guy who wants to party with some girl. Wow...that's new. Good party song? Maybe. Hearing this song more often than wanted? Unacceptable.

9. Hollaback Girl (Gwen Stefani) - I'm getting tired of writing this list. So, I'm going to sum this one up just as Brian, from Family Guy, would. I quote, "I don't know what a 'Hollaback Girl' is. All I know is that I want her dead." THANK YOU, FAMILY GUY AND SETH GREEN! There's so much profane language in this song. Once again, unneeded material. At this point in life, society may as well just accept swear words and un-sensor them. Everyone is starting to catch up onto what they are and what they mean. So, this song revolves around unspoken drama? C'mon! Suck it up, people! I'm sure as hell that people talk about me behind my back. Do I care? Not in the slightest. Grow up.

10. Barbie Girl (Aqua) - (sighs) Pathetic.

- Done...thank God. Time to go and listen to some REAL music.

My Top 10 Favorite WWE Themes

This list is in no particular order and was NOT stolen from another individual. Copyright Infringement will not be tolerated and all property goes to Steven Chung....AH SCREW IT! I don't care...do what you want. :)  

- Blog #14: I know. I love to use YouTube links to help emphasize the significance of my selections in these lists. So, bringing back that favoritism of mine, I'm going to be showing off another music blog! YAY! What's the topic of today's music blog? Why, it's the WWE! I never thought I could be hooked to such a dramatized excuse of a program. As it turns out, I watch the WWE network mainly for the theme music (which explains why "WWE's: Royal Rumble" is my favorite PPV). While I respect the athleticism and the "acting" of the "Superstars", I prefer to listen to the wrestler's enter and exit the ring to their respective theme music. I may do future blogs on WWE, including worst themes or even discuss the wrestlers themselves. This was an extremely tough list to maneuver around, but I managed to narrow it down to my top 10 favorites. Don't whine and complain on how a certain song isn't on here. I loved a lot of the music, but I could only chose 10 for the purpose of this site and the laws of continuity. So, here they are.

1. Jeff Hardy: (Loaded) - The high-flying, charismatic, enigmatic, and controversial Jeff Hardy. Hardy had a few good theme songs in the WWE. I liked all of them (which is much more to say than the songs he uses now, in TNA). However, only one of them gets stuck in my head. Whenever Jeff Hardy or the "Hardy Boyz" come to mind, this is the song that pops up. Hardy used this song for a few years and, unfortunately, switched it to his final entrance song by Endeverafter. I was not a huge fan of this move. It was ok, but it doesn't compare to "Loaded" and the catchy rhythm it has. This song was made by a guy named Zack Tempest. I don't even know that fact for certain, because I can't find this song anywhere! I swear (and I'm NOT going to download it illegally)! I wish this song was out on iTunes. I'd love to get it. Thankfully, YouTube exists.

2. Drew McIntyre (Broken Dreams) - This one is bad-ass...honestly. I don't know if the song fully suits the wrestler's character, but it certainly helps him appear more legendary. This one's by a group named Shaman's Harvest. While more recent than Jeff Hardy's theme, this one just generates a feeling of abnormal awesomeness. Drew McIntyre returned to the WWE not too long ago. He used a generic rock theme that was cool for a while. Then, one day, this song came out. It was that, along with an awesome titan-tron screening. I'm glad that THIS was recently added on iTunes. I was ecstatic! You could use this song in any action movie and it would work.

3. Mr. Kennedy (Turn Up The Trouble) - Who doesn't love their own name? This guy sure loved saying his in-ring name a lot. "Turn Up The Trouble" had Kennedy's name featured in it many times. Now, on TNA, he's Mr. Anderson. It just doesn't really ring bells, does it? Everyone has to feel confident about themselves, eventually. Be confident to almost the point of becoming an arrogant blow-heart! If I had a theme song, I could always make one that goes, "STEVEEEEEEN...CHUUUUUNG!" This song was arranged by Jim Johnston and it reeks of absolute cockiness. It's awesome. More awesome than the remix that was made a few years ago, which was by a group called Airbourne.

 

4. Dolph Ziggler (I Am Perfection) - Here's another prime example of someone who loves their own name. Yup. "Mr. Ziggles" thinks he's all that...amazing. This one is by a group called Cage 9. I love this theme. Honestly, I'd walk out to an arena with this playing in the background. People are calling this guy the next Mr. Perfect. I wouldn't disagree that this guy has potential to be a future world champion, but I think he needs a little more time. I mean...he went from chauffeur, to cheerleader, to this. It's a bit of a strange transition to actually call this guy a future champion. We'll all have to see what the future holds in store for this former Intercontinental Champion. All I know is that Dolph entered the WWE at a good time, what with past WWE stars now on their way to retirement.

5. Perry Saturn (Rings of Saturn) - I have no idea where this guy went and I don't even know if he'll ever return to WWE. It was said that he was seen on WWE's Bragging Rights 2010, but not many people know what happened and why he left. Perry Saturn wrestled in the days where WWE was massively popular, and the crowd always went nuts no matter who showed up. Plus, he was part of one of the most underrated and greatest stables in WWE history! This group was called "The Radicalz" (composed of Saturn, Dean Malenko, Eddie Guerrero (R.I.P.), and Chris Benoit (R.I.P.)). I don't really know who made this theme, but it's pretty tight. The siren at the beginning of the song gives you somewhat of a space-warped feeling. Then, you picture that you're on the "Rings of Saturn", rocking out! I wish more WWE themes had more generic rock music like this. Themes are made great now, but not many are memorable.

6. Chris Masters (The Masterpiece) - The superstar who has been accused the most for using steroids (and was caught...). Not only do I consider this one of my favorite theme compositions, but I also think that Chris Masters had one of the best entrances ever in the WWE. It's a shame that, since his return to the WWE, he doesn't come out to this song or use his entrance poses anymore. I believe this "Masterpiece" was made by Jim Johnston, though I'm not quite sure. Here's another song that should have been featured on a WWE music CD or sold on iTunes! There were two versions of this song that were used by Chris Masters. Since they're both almost identical, I'm putting both on here.

7. Marcus Cor Von "The Alpha Male" (Smooth) - Favoritism to the saxophone! Who said that all WWE themes had to have rock embedded in them? This is...jazz rock! This guy just did NOT get enough attention in the WWE and he only stayed in ECW for the shortest time ever. Cor Von was only there for a few weeks. Then, he left because of "family issues" and ended up being released from his WWE contract. Changing his name to Monty Brown and going to TNA did no good for his career. He could have been something big! Anyway, this theme has a wicked jaunty beat to it. Listening to this song makes me want to do the "cool walk" in the alleyway.

8. CM Punk (This Fire Burns) - CM Punk is one of my favorite wrestlers in the entire WWE. Lately, he's become more of a preacher than a wrestler. Nevertheless, what's wrong with promoting a "Straightedge Lifestyle" with no drugs? This theme song symbolizes Punk's fire inside his soul, not a fire that comes from a cigarette butt. Whenever this song hits the first note, you get a jolt of excitement and you just know that CM Punk is coming out. Also, it should be noted that Punk is one of the few wrestlers who rarely changes his theme song. I hope he doesn't change it, honestly. This is one of the very few themes that I feel fits perfectly with the character. Killswitch Engage originally intended this song to be Randy Orton's entrance theme. However, it was scraped and was used as a PPV theme. Then, it was given to CM Punk and it has remained with him ever since.

9. Ken Shamrock (The Ultimate) - Where did this guy go? Shamrock had one of the best themes in the WWE (back when it was known as WWF). Ken Shamrock was one of the hottest commodities during the WWF's "Attitude Era", and he was one of the most insanely intense wrestlers in the entire roster. He's traveled around WWE, UFC, and the MMA. It's too bad he doesn't plan on making any return to the WWE, as far as I know. He plans on sticking around in UFC. This song was featured on the WWE Anthology CD, but I can't seem to find out who made it. Whoever did make this song knew how to make a perfect fighter song. Any fighting montage could use this. My only complaint...IT NEEDED MORE COWBELL!

10. Chris Jericho (Break Down The Walls) - Jericho, Jericho, Jericho. What can I say? You really are one of the best wrestlers in the WWE. Whether Jericho is a face (good guy) or a heel (bad guy), Jericho continues to dominate. This one is a surefire Hall of Fame candidate. Y2J is one of longest lasting superstars in the WWE and his theme has basically been the same. The song was inspired by the famous "Battle of Jericho" and was created by Jim Johnston. This theme has got not so much rock, but a lot of rock inspired by techno. Chris Jericho is awesome. No question.

- Done. (Jim Johnston is the man!)

My Top 10 Favorite Mythological Creatures

This list is in no particular order and was NOT stolen from another individual. Copyright Infringement will not be tolerated and all property goes to Steven Chung....AH SCREW IT! I don't care...do what you want. :)  

- Blog #13: Happy 2011! I want to start off my blogging year with a high note. So, I'm going to fulfill a suggestion on a "Top 10" list that was given to me some time ago. Low and behold! Here's a list that I thought I'd never write about. We've heard stories about Greek mythology or have seen some sort of mythological creature. Well, here's a list of ones that I personally like. Just for the fun of it, I included a picture of the creature with each entry. Will your favorites be on here? Let's have a look-see...

1. Griffins - These things are just wicked cool, in my opinion. Griffins are legendary creatures that take on the shape of a lion's body, as well as an eagle's head with wings. I don't know what it is that makes me think that these creatures are so awesome. Maybe it's because, whenever I see it, I get this very strange sensation of hope and pride. Heck. Harry Potter's "Gryffindor" house goes by the idea of griffins! Look at how heroic Harry turned out to be (in a matter of fictionally speaking).

 

2. Hippogriffs - Baring a similar appearance to the griffin, the hippogriff is apparently an offspring from a griffin and a mare (horse). I guess I just like the idea of having an eagle's head on a creature. You could put an eagle's head on Megan Fox, but I would still love it. Yet again (coincidentally), here's another creature that was featured on Harry Potter.

 

3. Phoenixes - Another chicken to add on here, the phoenix is not only majestic, but it's awesome. It's quite simply a bird that is composed of bright colors that burns the eye...literally. This bird lives and it's on fire! These creatures, supposedly, ignite and burn to ashes once they are dead. From the ashes, a newly born baby phoenix is born (once again, another Harry Potter "Honorable Mention"). For a bird that could be considered immortal, the phoenix could be someone's dream pet. That is, of course, only if you're a bird person...and you have fire-insurance.

   

4. Hydras - If you're not a bird person, how about checking this one out? The hydra, or the Lernaean Hydra, is a serpent-like creature with numerous heads. The fact that it has so many heads made me chose this creature, over a leviathan. When one head gets cut off, another one grows back in its place. It's a feature that is similar to a starfish. The hydra is a very popular mythological creature, as it is mentioned in stories like The Odyssey and Heracles. There's another reason as ti why I like hydras, though. You'd have to play Heroes: Might and Magic III to know why.

   

5. Angels - Angels are not from the Greek mythology, but I consider them to be of celestial importance. Angels are messengers from the room above and they are most well-known for their ability to guide and watch over the human race. Many religions recognize angels, whether it's the Hebrew bible or the New Testament. Then, you have those people who make up false things like "Cupid" and other ridiculous notions on the idea of angels. Nonetheless, angels have been the long-lasting reason to continue giving signs of hope to society. I know I'll continue to pray.

6. Fauns - Part man, part bull (or goat...whatever). The faun is another classic mythological creature that is used frequently to publicize the ideals of Greek/Roman mythology. Why? I don't really know. People in the classical and renaissance era had an attachment to this creature, I suppose. Why do I like the faun? Well, I guess I can appreciate the fact that the faun's legacy lasted long enough to make an awesome movie out of their breed ("Pan's Labyrinth"...awesome!).

     
7. Dragons - Enough said.

8. The Sphinx - Egyptian mythology. Egyptians built a gigantic stone structure from this creature. It must have held some sort of significant purpose in the age of the Egyptian race (although they were crazy enough to build a giant pyramid, as well). I suppose these people liked the Sphinx because it's part human, but also part cat. I've always been amazed that such a creature held as much importance as the Statue of Liberty. It's a cat-woman! Why? I enjoy the mystery of it all.

9. Kappas - From Egyptian mythology to Japanese folklore, the kappa is type of water spirit that somewhat resembles a human mixed with a reptile. Their most noticed feature is that they have an indent in their heads. That indent holds water for the kappa's life-support. While deemed dangerous, the kappa can be easily defeated. All a person must do is to find a way to make the creature bow its head. Simply bowing to the kappa is enough to make it bow back, as kappas are also known to be polite. I almost enjoy the philosophy of this creature, as much as I do the creature itself.

10. Pegasus - It's a winged horse! Isn't that enough? It's one of the most famous beings in Greek mythology.

- Done.

My Top 10 Favorite Video-Game Intros

This list is in no particular order and was NOT stolen from another individual. Copyright Infringement will not be tolerated and all property goes to Steven Chung....AH SCREW IT! I don't care...do what you want. :) 

- Blog #12: Like my picture art? It's soon going to be 2011 and I thought it would be cool to start a final blog that would be talking about starting something else. This blog topic will be covering my favorite video-game intros and title screens. Basically, I was looking for intros that gave you a good feel on what the game was going to be like. It also had to give the player some sort of idea of what the storyline was. Again, I'm going to try and keep this list as one game per franchise. Here we go...(go ahead and "Press Start", why don't you?)

1. Metroid Fusion - Here's a classic intro that leaves you with the question, "Hey...what the hell is happening here?" That question, alone, describes the very nature of this game's plot. Being the first Metroid game I ever played, I really didn't know what to expect. What's great about this particular intro is that it makes the player WANT to know why the hero crashed their ship into an asteroid field. Unexpectedly, the game goes right into explaining that scenario and gives the briefing on what the mission is. In short, Samus Aran has been sent to the Biological Space Laboratories (B.S.L.) craft to investigate and eliminate a parasitic plague of X-Parasites, given along with the task of destroying the SA-X (an X-infected clone of Samus). With strange creatures popping out of nowhere, this game is marked as one of the more thrilling Metroid games. Personally, I think this Metroid game should also be recognized for the best soundtrack in the Metroid series.

2. Shadow the Hedgehog - I wasn't anticipating this game to be so...dark. Then I see the intro and I'm like, "Whoa...Shadow had a gun." I mean there were a lot of other cool things about this intro. However, the rock music mixed with the intensity of Shadow and all that gun action...I don't know. Honestly, this game was very fun. It's unlike my personality, but this game's dramatic outlook on Shadow's history really drew me in. This is not a game for those faint-of-heart Sonic the Hedgehog fans. If you're planning on buying this one (if it's even still out there), don't expect any sweet-talk from any of Sonic's friends. You're playing with fire, in a matter of speaking. Using some strong language and some very intense moments, it's no wonder that this game got a "'E-10' for ages ten and up" rating. There was even some slight drama over how this game is so "emo." I hate when people have to make things racial and stereotypical. In fact, it's a matter that shouldn't even be discussed. Just play the game to play the game! For God's sake! If you let Shadow hear that kind of drama, he'll freaking eat you alive!

3. Star Fox 64 - I know I've already talked a lot about this one in my previous blogs. Let's keep this entrant simple. The reason I like this intro is because it's unique and it's made for the sole purpose of introducing the game. I'm sure there are going to be some arguments over things like, "Star Fox: Adventure or Star Fox: Assault have more epic intros." Well, yeah sure. They might be more epic, but most of their intros feature gameplay-footage or cinematic clips from the game. I don't call those "intros." I call it a montage of what you're about to see from this game. Those are two completely different things. The intro of Star Fox: 64 tells you what you're going to be doing for this game. It's introduced in an epic fashion of having your team members run to their planes for some high-flying action. This intro developed Star Fox into the franchise that it is today. MAKE ANOTHER GAME, NINTENDO! I know that there were other Star Fox games made before this one, but none made Star Fox more known than Star Fox: 64.

4. ALL Super Smash Bros. Games - So, you've heard the point I made about cut-scenes and gameplay-footage intros for #3 on this list, right? Well, for these games, forget about it. I know I'm once again breaking my rules for having more than one game per franchise. To be fair though, that rule only applied for individual entries...and it's my list (I can do what I want!). Besides, for all these games that mainly revolve around the matter of beating the crap out of everybody, I'll gladly make room. The intros are perfect for these types of games. They give you an ideal picture of who's going to be featured in the melee and it displays the awesome aspects of the game. You have to watch the intros and play the games to understand the full concept of this.

5. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time - There was a lot of going back-and-forth on whether I should put this intro on the list or The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess intro on here. Ultimately, I chose this one. For one reason or another, I can't think of a Zelda prologue more dynamic than this one. It was a really tough call. In fact, the main deciding factor was that I thought the music was much better in the Ocarina of Time's version. Even for the era it was created, the Ocarina of Time's graphics were fantastic. Moon falls, beautiful piano music starts up, Link rides along on his horse. All the while, everyone is playing the game to watch in awe. It's like watching a heroic intro to an old-animated movie or something in the "Robin Hood" genre, whereas the Twilight Princess' version doesn't seem to hold the same amount of pleasure from the title. Both were great, but I personally think that Ocarina of Time wins.

6. Megaman 8 - Here's a classic standard that isn't so classic. Megaman 1-6 had the original 8-bit graphics, while 7 and 8 moved to something more different. This only led things to return to 8-bit for Megaman 9 and 10. Megaman 8 had something that all of the other games lacked. Megaman 8 had an awesome animated intro. It reflects Megaman's character and it reflects on Megaman's past enemies. While it doesn't exactly show you what's going to happen in the game...who cares? It's a Megaman game! You blast stuff, you beat robot masters, and you defeat Dr. Wily (for the 8th time...). Another main difference with Megaman 8 is the animated cutscenes in between certain checkpoints in the game.

7. Mario Power Tennis - Mario sports games have become all the rage. There are games that involve golf, soccer, baseball, and even tennis! One of the greatest things I noticed about all of these games is the fact that all of them have some awesome (and funny) graphical intros. Since there aren't many Mario games with decent or memorable intros, I've decided to look further into which sports intro I loved the best. All of their graphics were amazing, but only one of them stood out. That was the Mario Power Tennis intro. It was longer than almost all of the other sports games combined. It showed me that the creators put a lot of time and dedication into it. It may be long, but it was fun. It introduced the ideas of tennis and all of the other Super Mario wackiness embedded in it.

8. Pokémon Red - The most nostalgic intro that started it all. Pokémon Red came out at the same time as Pokémon Blue. If you could believe it, I chose Red over Blue because of the two Pokémon used in the intro. In Red, they used Gengar and Nidorino. In Blue, they used Gengar and...Jigglypuff. Why they set up the intros so differently and why they even chose Jigglypuff for Blue, I'll probably never know. I guess, if I had a choice between Nidorino or Jigglypuff, I'd go the Nidorino route. So, what was the main reason that made me chose Red over Blue? Watch the video under the first one to find out why.

(If you still don't get it...shame. -_-)


9. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater - This one's almost better than a James Bond intro. What's great about Metal Gear Solid intros is that the intros have the decency to include the creators in a credit-like sequence. What made the 3rd Metal Gear Solid intro better than the others was the music. Mixed with the graphics of newspaper articles on events that took place during the Cold War-Soviet Union era, the music gave you the feeling that you're about to play something of the "007" nature. The hero, Snake, has been sent alone to a jungle to rescue a weapons designer and end the ploy of a super-weapon threat. So, the intro matches perfectly with the environment in which you're going to be playing in for most of the game. Metal Gear Solid games are like watching and playing a movie. Interactive movies!

10. Donkey Kong 64 - I don't even think I need to explain why I like this one. At one point in this song, I'm surprised the game wasn't slapped with an "E-10" or "'T' for Teen" rating. Ah...this was way back when people didn't make such a big deal over little words or stereotypical rap music.

- Done. As a side note, I'd like to wish all the blog readers a Happy New Year! By 2011, I hope to write new blogs on topics that you want me to write about, or blogs that I had planned out for next year. Wishing you the best! (Don't drink too much egg-nog!) 

My Top 10 Best Christmas Songs

This list is in no particular order and was NOT stolen from another individual. Copyright Infringement will not be tolerated and all property goes to Steven Chung....AH SCREW IT! I don't care...do what you want. :)  

- Blog #11: Due to excruciating times and struggles of college and school curricular, I've been very negligent in avoiding this site for a bit. However, the near-glacial temperature has given me the necessary motivation in finding a new topic to discuss. Christmas time is a very special time of year. For some, this holiday is the beginning of the end for the previous year. For others, it is a time to reflect on some of the greatest holiday traditions ever. When I think of Christmas, one thing comes to mind right away. That very thing is the holiday music that summons itself out of nowhere. It's the end of Thanksgiving and "Ka-POW!" Christmas music is playing on the radio at 12:00 am, which is the day after. This blog was made to specially commemorate some of the best Christmas songs that I've ever heard. 

1. 12 Days of Christmas (The Muppets Version) - I love the "12 Days of Christmas" song anyway, but I immediately think of this rendition when the song is brought up into discussion. I remembered the good old days where I would sit in the comforts of my living room and put on a cassette (yes...they were still used) with some of the best Christmas music ever. This was back when the Muppets ruled the world. One of the songs was the Muppets version of "12 Days of Christmas" and, the first time I heard it, I said in my mind: "Oh my God....MUPPETS!" This song is great because you think you're going to hear a regular man sing it (which would have worked, since John Denver had a great voice), but nope. Suddenly, Fozzy the Bear comes in! Whoo-Hoo! Then, you got an entourage of Muppet voices and you relive the funny moments of creativity at its best.

2. Feliz Navidad - "Who would-a thunk it?" Spanish lyrics in a Christian holiday song. If I recall, this song was also featured on the very same cassette I mentioned in #1. Sure, it's repetitive and there's really only one set of lines/lyrics to the entire song. However, was anybody else attracted to José Feliciano's voice when this song was played? I was. I'm not going to lie. It's not even about what the song was saying. It's Feliciano's voice and the feeling of joy that you got when you heard this music. I swear it gets better every year.

3. Sleigh Ride - I really enjoy this piece of music. Listening to this song really does give you the sensation that you're riding on a sleigh. All in a beautiful Christmas-like climate. There's another reason that I have this song on my list, though. I've listened to a lot of Christmas songs and, as a musician, I can say that this one is one of the hardest ones to play. I'm sure there are "hardcore" musicians reading this and thinking, "Oh that song's not hard. It's easy!"  Maybe it's easy for THEM to play, but they can't deny this song to be a challenge. Believe me...it's harder than what many people make it out to be. I have a high respect for people who can perfectly play this Christmas beast.

4. Carol of the Bells - Here's another song that gives personification a workout. "Carol of the Bells" can give you the instant vision of bells that are ringing in a harmony of melodic rounds. It doesn't really matter how this song is composed. I've appreciated every composition made from this piece, even Family Guy's Burger King version. Ding...dong...ding...dong......(Ding! Fries are done! Ding! Fries are done!)

5. A Holly Jolly Christmas - Burl Ives has a very unique voice that many people will not be able to top, even in the many years to come. Many people see Ives as the snowman who sings this song on Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. To be honest, so do I. I remember Ives the Snowman singing and narrating the show and I believe that every child should grow up watching Rudolph and Ives on Christmas. It's a classic song. The song is telling you to have a merry holiday and do what any courteous person would do and say hello to friends you know...and everyone you meet (I wasn't trying to be cute there).

6. Breath of Heaven (Mary's Song) - This is a song that I'm sure not many people have thought of along the thoughts of Christmas. Indeed. This is a Christian song written by Amy Grant and it was made for the purpose of the popular Christian holiday. It's just a sweet, soothing tune that can warm anyone's heart. I first heard of this song through one of Boney James' Christmas albums, which is where I listened to his saxophone version of "Breath of Heaven." One of Amy Grant's best songs. This piece is a beautiful addition to my list.

7. Silent Night - Unlike "Breath of Heaven", "Silent Night" seems to get all the attention when you get right down to it. It's another Christian song celebrating Christ, our savior. Why this gets more attention than "Breath of Heaven" is beyond my line of logic, but I know that this song has caught many people's ears. It really does give you this inner feeling of peace in your soul. If ever I am asked to sing this for a special Christmas event, I would gladly partake.

8. I'll Be Home For Christmas - Here's a great song. Think about it like this. You have a family member or a very close friend who's away from you...for a long period of time. You're nearing the holiday season and you're thinking about if your loved one will make it home for Christmas. This song could very well be a tribute to those who leave their families to apply their craft, in their trade, elsewhere. War, out-of-state jobs, out-of-country jobs, and even excursions can be the hair's split end. In the end, those people want to return home. Our hopes go out with this song and those who work very hard for what they want to accomplish.

9. O Christmas Tree - Music is sometimes considered poetry in a melodic movement. This song is a poem within music. It tributes the traditional addition to the holiday shin-digs. There are many versions of this song out there, but all revolve around the same point. The Christmas tree remains tall and proud, while all the presents are laid around (my inner-poet). I guess the idea of praising a mascot for nature is a respectable reason for this song to be featured here.

10. Christmas Time is Here - A song that literally tells you that Christmas time is here! I give you my holiday song of choice. This song's most famous role was being the intro music to the first ever Peanuts show made (made possible by the great Vince Guaraldi). Whenever Merry Christmas, Charlie Brown came on the air, you knew that you were nearing the holiday. This song is just wonderful to sing to, listen to, and play a musical instrumentation to. Just now, I'm visioning Charlie Brown and his friends skating on the ice. Remembering the good old days makes me weep in my heart. Shows and music just aren't made the same anymore...you just can't stop progress. I usually don't like picking favorites to anything, but this song really leaves my mind on the fence. If not THE best song, "Christmas Time is Here" is one of the most memorable Christmas songs ever!

- Done. (Happy Holidays from Steven Chung!)